Turkey’s exports of cultural goods consisting of more than
70 percent of the handicraft products, increased by 38 percent during 2015-2017
rose to 24.6 billion liras from 17.8 billion liras.

Handicraft products, which bear the traces of Turkish
culture from weaving to tile, woodworking to glass art, have expanded their
place in the world showcase.

Considering the cultural field, the total stood at 17.9
billion liras last year, exports of handicraft products with the highest share.
The share of handicrafts in total exports of cultural goods was 72.7 percent.

Handicrafts, followed by audio and visual media exports with
24 percent, and book and print press exports with 3 percent. Visual arts,
performing arts and common celebrations, architectural design products,
cultural heritage, archives and libraries have also attracted attention as
other areas where cultural exports were made. The products in question were
sent all over the world.

The highest share in the import of cultural goods was seen
in visual and auditory media with 55.2 percent. Imports in this area were
calculated as 10.2 billion liras in 2017.

Director of Traditional Handicrafts and Stores of the
Ministry of Culture and Tourism Yılmaz said, the works carried out within the
scope of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity increased the
export of cultural goods. As these and similar works continue, handicrafts
reflecting the cultural identities will take place in the international
platform more.